Years 7-9 and Years 10-11 are as outlined under "Science".
At Advanced Level, we follow the new AQA Specification. There
are two modules at AS, "Biology and Disease" and "Variety of Living
Organisms", and two at A2, "Populations and Environment" and
"Control in Cells and Organisms". In addition, there is a further
centre-assessed unit at each level covering "Investigative and
Practical Skills in Biology".
The Biology Department is well equipped, with several
laboratories for use within the Science suite of rooms and one
specifically designed for Advanced Level work. A computer is
available in each laboratory and the adjacent Computer Suite can be
booked for whole classes. Practical work plays an important part in
lessons: we encourage students to develop their individual skills,
whether in microscopy, biochemistry or fieldwork. There is a
compulsory residential four day fieldtrip in the Summer Term to the
Field Studies Centre at Blencathra in the Lake District.
There are opportunities outside lessons for those girls who wish
to extend their interest in Biology as some of the Upper Sixth
(Year 13) take part in the British Biology Olympiad. The
universities in Manchester also regularly host lectures and
conferences for Sixth Formers and some students this year have
undertaken work experience in the laboratories within the
Microbiology and Medical faculties.
Biology is a very popular choice at Advanced Level with over
thirty-five girls in each year group.